Te Ana-au Caves

Te Ana-au is a show cave with limestone passages and underground streams that form a network of chambers within Fiordland National Park along Lake Te Anau's western shore. The cave system contains multiple levels with different geological formations and flowing waterways throughout.

Lawson Burrows discovered these caves in 1948 after a three-year search guided by Maori legends. The discovery led to the establishment of tourism activities in this location.

The name Te Ana-au comes from the Maori language and means 'The Swirling Cave', reflecting how water moves through the underground passages. Visitors today can feel this connection to the natural forces that shaped these spaces as they walk through and hear the water flowing.

Access involves a boat ride across Lake Te Anau followed by a guided exploration in groups of about 14 people. Bring warm clothing since temperatures inside the cave are quite cool.

Small boats glide through dark passages where thousands of bioluminescent glowworms native to New Zealand light up the cave ceiling. These glowing organisms create an otherworldly light display that many visitors find memorable.

Location: Southland District

GPS coordinates: -45.29540,167.72700

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:09